2011S1202-1 05/05/11 By: Fraser S.C.R. No. 54 CONCURRENT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, The Legislature of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of Gregory Mack Simmons, who died April 15, 2011, in the line of duty, while fighting the devastating wildfires sweeping the state; and WHEREAS, Greg Simmons was a firefighter in the City of Eastland, where he was widely respected and admired for his many achievements; he was a loyal and compassionate man who was rarely seen without a smile on his face; and WHEREAS, Mr. Simmons was born December 26, 1960, in Dallas; he was a loving husband to his wife, Carrie, and a proud and devoted father to his daughters, Kateland and Karley; he was co-owner of the family business, Allegro Mobility, a firm providing mobility devices for the elderly and disabled; and WHEREAS, His career as a firefighter encompassed 21 years, first with the Sachse Fire Department and then with the Eastland Fire Department, where he served for 11 years; he was known for his willingness to assume new responsibilities and his enthusiasm for offering support wherever it was needed, and in 2001 he was named Eastland Fireman of the Year; and WHEREAS, Mr. Simmons was active in social and civic affairs; from frying fish at high school football games to playing scary roles at the community haunted house, he was a constant and reassuring presence in the life of his community; and WHEREAS, A man of courage, strength, and compassion, he gave generously to others, and his love for his family and his passion for living each day to the fullest will not be forgotten by those who knew him; and WHEREAS, He was a devoted husband and father, and he leaves behind memories that will be treasured forever by his family and many friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 82nd Legislature of the State of Texas hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Gregory Mack Simmons: his wife, Carrie Simmons; his daughters, Kateland and Karley Simmons; his mother, Thelma Inez Simmons; and his sister, Sharon Lively; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Legislature, and that when the legislature adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Gregory Mack Simmons.